Our MIssion

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Pathways to Independence of Central Ohio is a nonprofit agency providing mentoring and job placement to recent high school graduates and young adults with disabilities in Columbus, Ohio and surrounding areas. At Pathways to Independence, we strive to give employment and transition opportunities to individuals with disabilities that utilize their individual skills and interests. Pathways to Independence aspires to give individuals the ability to enrich their lives and their community through career participation.

In Ohio, there are more than 30,000 working-age adults with developmental disabilities who receive adult services. The vast majority of these services are provided in segregated settings. According to Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities data, only 24% of working-age adults in Ohio currently receive integrated employment services. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be successfully employed. 

The beliefs of Pathways to Independence of Central Ohio are the pursuit of the following principles:

•Commitment: Pathways to Independence will inspire pro-social friendships, build strong interpersonal skills, and instill a sense of hope and growth in the future. ​

•Possibility: Pathways to Independence will expand the perspective of individuals with disabilities to make them aware of life's possibilities.

•Support: An individual is dramatically influenced by their support system. Pathways to Independence will surround young people with disabilities with a caring, inclusive learning environment.

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